Updates
What you need to know with the 3G mobile network switch off
Telstra, Optus and TPG Telecom (including Vodafone) are switching off their 3G networks to boost the capacity, speed and reliability of their 4G and 5G networks.
TPG Telecom ceased operating its 3G network on 30 January 2024. Telstra plans to switch off its 3G network on 31 August 2024, and Optus from 1 September 2024. Network transitions are a commercial decision by the mobile network operators (MNOs), that enable the evolution of technologies and efficient use of spectrum for their 4G and 5G networks. 3G was well-suited for telephone calls, text messages and access to basic online content.
By comparison, 4G and 5G technologies are better-suited to the range of data-intensive online applications that Australians now expect to access from their mobile service. The Australian Government has been monitoring industry’s preparations ahead of the 3G network switch offs, and receives regular reporting from the MNOs on their efforts to identify and engage with customers that are impacted, as well as advice on the impacts on coverage and ability for providers to
maintain service obligations.
What you need to know
Consumers with 3G-enabled mobile phones, medical, internet of things and other devices will need to migrate to a compatible 4G device. The MNOs advise that devices impacted by the 3G switch offs include:
- 3G-only devices – these devices, including phones and other devices such as medical alarms, security alarms and EFTPOS machines, have no 4G compatibility and will lose all connectivity as expected.
- 4G devices without the right radio frequency band capability – some ‘grey import’ or ‘bring your own’ devices purchased overseas or imported into Australia may not be compatible with the radio frequency bands used to deliver 4G and 5G services in Australia.
- 4G devices without VoLTE capability – These devices will lose the ability to make or receive phone calls entirely following the switch off of 3G, including Triple Zero calls.
- 4G VoLTE-capable devices that route Triple Zero emergency calls through 3G – These phones will continue to make and receive regular calls, but will not make calls to Triple Zero following the switch off of the 3G networks.
The last set of mobile devices are particularly concerning as they will continue to operate normally for voice calls once 3G is switched off, except for calls to Triple Zero. The MNOs advise that these devices can include older devices, those purchased overseas and brought into Australia, or purchased on the ‘grey market’. The industry has been working together through the 3G Networks Closure Working Group to support the 3G network switch offs in a safer way, with a focus on this category of devices.
What you need to do
Customers are strongly encouraged to check whether their devices are compatible with 4G/5G networks, including for emergency calling, and consider upgrading devices if required prior to the switch offs. Where possible, the network operators are contacting impacted customers directly, and also have information on their websites.
The MNOs also have an SMS tool for all customers to check their mobile devices. By texting ‘3’ to 3498, customers will receive a reply with advice on whether they need to take action. Information is also available at www.3gclosure.com.au and the Department’s website. If mobile customers have concerns relating to the affordability of new 4G-compatible devices, they should contact their service provider to discuss what options are available to ensure they can stay connected.
The 3G switch off not only impacts mobile phones but could also could impact other equipment used by industry and business. It is very important that businesses understand how the 3G switch off will impact equipment and that they take steps to upgrade before the switch off. Some 4G enables devices may have aspects that rely on 3G. Businesses should check with their service provider or device manufacturer to confirm.
Telstra and Optus have indicated there will be no loss of coverage following the 3G network switch offs. If customers have concerns relating to the quality or coverage of mobile services, they should raise them with their service provider in the first instance.